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QIN PERSON
When asked what causes acne, Dr. Sharon stressed that there is no one factor that primarily causes acne. She explainedthat it is a process: 1. Excessive sebum production secondaryto androgen stimulation. 2 Follicular keratinization resultingin follicular plugging. 3. Proliferation of Propionibacterium Acne can further be aggravated by inappropriate cosmetics and skin care products as well as high calorie and highglycemic index diet. An important factor not to be missed isstress, family history of acne and hormonal imbalances.
We talk to Dr. Sharon Gopalan, who recently
Steps in Treatment
joined the LAFA Group about her work.
A one-on-one consultation with Dr. Sharon is the first step fora patient before a proper diagnosis is made. She will sit down with the patient to learn more about their entire history and habits – from what their diet is like to the type of skin care and cosmetics used on their face on a daily basis – so that she can learn what they are doing right and vice versa.
Next she assesses the severity of the acne and then explains Having treated more than 100 patients to date, Dr Sharon believes that insight is of utmost importance and feels happy that there is an increasing awareness in the stricken urbanites.
A proper skincare treatment to prevent acne has become part Consultant skin and aes-
of many people’s lifestyle. “A lot more people are more con- thetic physician Dr. Sharon
scious now about taking care of their skin,” she said.
Gopalan has treated many
acne patients.
“If the acne is mild, I would normally start them on topical treatment such as Benzoyl Peroxide (2.5% , 5%, 10%), or topical established practice which is fully equipped and up to date antibiotics such as erythromycin and clindamycin during the with the current market trends, technology and in keeping day and retinoids or azelaic acid on night. I would introduce with patients’ expectations as well as ensuring high quality systemic antibiotics namely doxycycline, minocycline or care. In line with this, when I was looking for a better oppor- erythromycin for moderate to severe acne. Severe, recalcitrant tunity in my career, hence LAFA filled in the blank easily.” acne would require oral Isotretinoin (13-cis retinoic acid), Having done her MB BCh BAO at the Royal College of which reduces sebum secretion, normalizes epidermal kera- Surgeons in Ireland, Dr. Sharon then continued to pursue a tinization and inhibits P acne,” Dr. Sharon added.
Postgraduate Diploma in Dermatology from Cardiff Univer- Dr. Sharon advised that keeping your face clean is essential sity, UK. Her hunger for knowledge led her further to pursue in preventing acne. Washing your face atleast twice daily to another Diploma in Aesthetic Medicine from the American remove impurities, dead skin cells, and extra oil from your Academy of Aesthetic Medicine (AAAM). One area that she skin's surface does wonders to your skin. Also, take care of has had considerable experience in is the treatment of acne.
your diet as it has a huge impact on your skin.
Acne Scar Subtypes
|<2 mm|
| >4 - 5 mm |
| >1 - 4 mm |
Skin surface
Scar edges
Dr. Sharon’s patient before and after treatment for acne.
Now, it does not just end there. Post acne scars such as Causes of Acne
Post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation may resolve without Acne Vulgaris is a chronic androgen-dependant disorder of treatment however atrophic acne scars will benefit from proce- the pilosebaceous unit resulting in greasiness and a polymor- dures such as dermabrassion, chemical peeling and Franctional phic eruption over the face and torso. Acne is a blight affect- ing more than 80% of adolescents and young adults. It can What does Dr. Sharon enjoy most about her job? The flexi- start as early as 8 years of age and can last up to the age of 45 bility of tailor-made effective treatment regimes and aftercare if patients do not have proper skincare regimes to be followed.
procedures for her patients and knowing that her craft can According to Dr. Sharon, there are several types of acne – boost her patients’ self esteem which enables them to say mild, moderate, severe, nodulocystic acne and acne conglobata.
goodbye to depression is a victory for her.
COSMETIC SURGERY & BEAUTY MAGAZINE • 17

Source: http://www.lmg.com.my/pdf/cosmetics-surgery-content.pdf